Christopher Esper
1| Christopher Esper
SELECTED WORKS
SYSTEMS
SITE
SITUATION
4
10
22
Berklee College of Music Back Bay, Boston
Border Cultural Center
The City of Gowanus
Texas - Mexico Border
in the Borough of Brooklyn
The City of Gawanus
Low-E Glass Layer
in the borough of Brooklyn
Polycarbonate Panel Lay
Structural Steel Frame
While El Paso and Cd. Juarez share ma place in the early history and foundation est of times, the cross- border mentality such the violence in Mexico and immigra Ve purpose of Congruence is to re-surface back together, and “reflect” the characte Structural Concrete Base
2 | Selected Works
Presented by Team Chinezia: Lauren Bordes Gillian Chang Chris Esper Brian Haulter
STRUCTURE 28
Natatorium
Critic: Nicholas Markovich |Fall ‘10
REAL ESTATE
THEORY
Soldiers Field
“A Ballroom for Fred Astair”
40
Development, Negotiation & Investment Analysis
50
Studio Option: Mack Scogin
yer
Frame Detail
Egress
any cultural and social influences such as the Hispanic culture and El Paso’s n of the United States, El Paso is also a cultural hub representing from the earliy of the early 1900’s. In a more contemporary setting, certain external forces ationCirculation has not only caused a geographical divide, but also a social divide. The ertical the facets of life that manifest physical setting and essentially “grow” the two that once made both cities one in the same. eeristics Foundation
COMPETITION
32
Parametric Semiology
46
Push-Pull
Critic: Patrick Schumaker |Studio Option Fall ‘13
OnePrize Competition Entry
44
SKILLS PROFESSIONAL
Para-Mesh Frame Mesh, Computation
54
Professional
HOK Architects 80 Story Tower Facade DD
Residential
a post- Katrina dwelling
3| Christopher Esper
Pedestrian Circulation
Berklee College of Music Mixed-Use Tower in Back Bay Boston Critic: Jonathan Levi
a
B
A
+0
+20
CR.AL.AR CR.AL.AR CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
b
L
[Lobby] -Cafe -Book Store -Coat/ Ticketing -ICA Lobby
4 | Selected Works
Scale: 1/8” = 1’
a
B
A
CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR CR.AL.AR
b CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
CR.AL.AR
Musical compilation as a diverse and complex art is not unlike the orchestration of space. The culmination of various programmatic elements is similar to the composition of a score whereby various human activities can be orchestrated in a harmonious way that mediates the alternating scale and rhythm of space. In the case of this new proposal for The Berklee College of Music in Back Bay Boston, the interaction of the public with musicians on the street, on train stops platforms and stair stoops not to mention other nodes of heightened urban activity, further reinforces the need for an institution that is of the city. The analysis of these often oblique, active surfaces can be recomposed into a score for the city that projects unto itself the diverse urban phenomenon which facilitates spaces for musicians and the cities interaction with them.
B
[Berklee College Class/Admin] -Large Classrooms -Small Classrooms -Administration -Academic Hall/Commons Scale: 1/8” = 1’
5| Christopher Esper
D
6 | Selected Works
B
T
G L
A
Transverse Section
[Transverse Section] Scale: 1/16” = 1’
D
7| Christopher Esper
B
T
L G
B
[Longitudinal Section] Scale: 1/16” = 1’
8 | Selected Works
a
A
b
D
[Dormatory] -Dorm Rooms -Student Lounges -Outdoor Terrace Scale: 1/8” = 1’
B
Dormitory/ Terrace 9| Christopher Esper
The City of Gowanus
10 | Selected Works
in the borough of Brooklyn Critic: Eric Howeler | Masterplan in collaboration with Brian Haulter, Lauren Bordes & Gillian
The Gowanus Canal, in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, is one of the most polluted waterways in the United States. This project approaches the redevelopment of the area with a focus placed on not only the remediation of the canal, but also with sensitivity to the preservation of the rich industrial history of the Gowanus and its neighbors. The existing fabric of Red Hook was evaluated based upon its importance (both culturally and aesthetically), with run-down and abandoned structures or plots being redeveloped in early phases, those with high tenant turnover rates or in obvious need of disrepair being redeveloped in the later phases, and structures that have been declared as historical landmarks or as important to the neighborhood being preserved and influencing the coding of the new development.
A major cause for the pollution of the canal is the direct runoff it receives from the surrounding streets. This not only causes all manner of pollutants from cars and litter to pour directly into the waterway, but without any mitigation of stormwater runoff, even mildly heavy rains can cause flooding of the Gowanus neighborhood. Our solution was to dedicate a large portion of the redeveloped land to “rain parks�. These are areas of lower elevation that are intentionally flooded during times of heavy rains, but programmable as parks, plazas, parking lots, amphitheaters, etc. for most of the year. The addition of an elevated pedestrian pathway allows for a secondary ground level, especially convenient during those times of heavy rain, and provides an infrastructure for a system of drainage between building and rain parks. The maximum building envelopes of the new development have been shaped to provide for optimal evaporation within the rain parks, as well as following the city’s preexisting light and air requirements.
Framework
Between Existing and New Formations Existing We believe that progress is forwarded by a distinct dialectic between existing entities and new formations. To reform the site, we intend to preserve an urban memory as we develop a new city language.
Phase 0
11| Christopher Esper
1. Demolish Category 1 & 2 Buildings. 2. Construct primary and secondary pedestrian paths to increase flow to site. 3. Excavate and expand canal for remediation and marina.
Phase 1 1. Consolidate parcels on blocks with less than three existing buildings remaining. 2. Construct rainparks. 3. Enact Code (except Memory Laws). 4. Begin development of consolidated blocks.
Phase 2 1. Demolish Category 3& 4 Buildings. 2. Construct tertiary pedestrian paths. 3. Enact Memory Laws. 4. Open remaining site to development.
Code: Memory Laws
M1.07
Memory Stack Value 6 building owners may build new structure atop existing so long as the Value 6 building is designated to civic use and the facade is preserved.
M1.08
Memory Bond If constructing directly adjacent to a Value 6 building, new structure must allow 50% of windows on existing party wall access to natural light.
50%
Framework
“Between Existing and New Formations�
Civic 10%
9
Residential 35%
15%
20 million
$
30%
55%
Typ. Storefront
Retail 40%
Live-Work Hotel 5% 5%
SQFT
General 40%
Gallery/Museum 15%
Flagship
1-2 B.R. 46%
Local
GROSS
Convention 15%
Family 16%
Business/ Office 45%
AVG. FAR
High Density 38%
Recreation 30%
Start-Up 5%
$ Commercial 40% Manufacturing 15%
The City of Gowanus
12 | Selected Works
in the borough of Brooklyn
Canal and3Path and Canal Carving Path and Carving Path Carving 3 Canal and 4 Path Carving 3 Carving 3 Canal 2 Rain Park Ridge Line Ridge Line 4 Ridge 4 Line
2 Setback 2 Park Rain Rain2Carving Park Rain Carving Park Carving 1 Street
Setback Street Setback 1 Street 1 Street 1 Setback
Water Planes Water Planes Water Planes
Water Planes
Waterways and Waterways rain parks may and exist rainWaterways parks on mayand existrain onparks may exist on multiple planes.multiple planes. multiple planes.
Mass andMass Paths andMass Paths MassRain andCarving Paths
Mass and Paths
1. Rain parks are 1. Rain created parks as intentional are created 1. Rainflooding parks as intentional arezones, created flooding as intent zon alleviating the strain alleviating on the thecanal. strain alleviating on the canal. the strain on the canal. Buildings whichBuildings intersectwhich designated intersect Buildings designated which intersect designated Buildings which intersect des Buildings adjacent tomust and directly across pedestrian paths pedestrian must allow paths their must pedestrian allow their paths allow their pedestrian paths must allow t the street from rain parks must follow the2. A ridgeline is2.placed A ridgeline at theismidpoint placed 2. A ridgeline atbetween the midpoint is placed the between atand the may mid the continuous passage continuous and may passage extend continuous and and may passage extend and and may extend and continuous passage carving sunlight requirements. canal parks andredirecting the raincanal parks half and redirecting of all therainwater parks of redirectin all connect to the connect paths ontoany theofpaths the connect on any toof the the paths on any of the canal and the rain connect torain thehalf paths onrainwa any o
Right to Right Light to Right Light to Light
Right to Light
Right to Light Right to LightRight to Light Residents have Residents a right have to Residents natural a right light to have natural ina right light to in natural light in their habitats. their habitats.their habitats.
Right to LightDevelopments Developments surrounding rain surrounding parks Developments rain parks surrounding rain parks mayabuild directly may upbuild to edge directly of pool may upin tobuild edgedirectly of poolup to edge of pool Residents have right to natural light provided boundary they offer provided pedestrian boundary they offerprovided pedestrian they offer pedestrian their habitats.boundary pathway through pathway and down through to pool and pathway area. downthrough to pool and area.down to pool area.
When possible,When rain parks possible, mustrainWhen parkspossible, must rain parks must When possible, rain parks must Developments surrounding rainBlocks parkstouchingBlocks canal edge touching mustcanal Blocks edgetouching must canal edge must Blocks touching canal edge must be placed along bethe placed southern along the besouthern placed along the southern be placed along the southern Xsurrounding pedestrian X Developments Developments surrounding pedestrian surrounding Developments pedestrian dedicate 60% of adjacent at least 60% dedicate of adjacent at least 60% of adjacent dedicate at least 60% of adjacent may build directly up to edge of pool at leastdedicate 20%X edge of a blockedge to achieve of a block toedge achieve of a block to achievewaterfront at a depth edge of at a block tofeet achieve pathsat must path’s provide, plane, paths at 50% path’s must provide, plane, 50% waterfront of at at least a depth 20 feet waterfront ofto at least at20 a depth feet toof least 20 to paths must provide, waterfront at aplane, depth50% ofat at path’s least 20 feet to boundary provided they offer pedestrian maximum access maximum to sunlight. access to maximum sunlight.access to sunlight. air space. open air space. open air space. maximum access to sunlight. open airarea space. floor area of public flooruse. area of public floor use. of public use. pathway through and down toopen pool area.
Rain Parks Rain ParksRain Parks
Ped PathPed Enclaves Path Enclaves Ped Path Enclaves
Courtyard Courtyard CarvingCarving 6 Party 6 Courtyard 6Carving 5 Parcel
Party Parcel Party 5 Parcel 5 Parcel 5 Party
>75’
Mass Party Mass Courtyard Mass Courtyard Mass Courtyard Buildings may occupy the full width of
>75’
Mass PartyMass PartyParcel MassConfiguration Party
Parcel Consolidation Parcel Consolidation Parcel Consolidation
their Parcel to form party walls with their Buildings with floor Buildings plates with exceeding floor Buildings plates 75’ exceeding with floor 75’plates exceeding adjacent buildings, adjacent provided buildings, that thisprovided adjacentthat buildings, this provided that this adjacent 75’ buildings, provided that this in their shortest dimension in their shortest must dimension introduce in their shortest must introduce dimension must does not obscuredoes existing not obscure windows.existing does not windows. obscure existing windows. doesintroduce not obscure existing windows. a courtyard at least awalls. courtyard 20% of floor at least areaa20% courtyard of floorat area least 20% of floor areamust contain 60% party walls. A block must contain A block 60% must party contain walls. A 60% blockparty mustwalls. contain 60% party A block
Buildings may occupy Buildings the may full width occupy of Buildings the full may widthoccupy of the full width of
20%
20%
Parcel Consolidation Parcel may Consolidation not exceed Parcel may one Consolidation not block. exceed one mayblock. not exceed one block.
Parcel Geometry Parcel Geometry Parcel Geometry
New Parcel division New Parcel must respect division New block must Parcel geometry. respect division block must geometry. respect block geometry.
Parcel Minimum Parcel Minimum Parcel Minimum
20’
20’
A parcel’s shortest A parcel’s lengthshortest may not Alength parcel’s be narrower may shortest not than belength 20 narrower feet. maythan not 20 be feet. narrower than 20 feet.
Mass Courtyard Buildings with floor plates exceeding 75’ in their shortest dimension must introduce a courtyard at least 20% of floor area
Parcel Geometry Waste
Waste Water
Waste Water Water Waste Water
New Parcel division must respect block geometry. 20’
20%
Parcel Consolidation
Parcel Consolidation may not exceed one block.
Buildings exceeding Buildings an FAR exceeding of 3.5 must Buildings an FAR include of exceeding 3.5 a 50% must include an FAR aof50% 3.5 must include a 50% 20’ efficient rainwater efficient and greywater rainwaterrecycling and efficient greywater system rainwater recycling in order and greywater system in order recycling system in order A parcel’s shortesttolength may not beonnarrower than 20infrastructure. feet. demand on infrastructure. minimise demand to minimise infrastructure. demand toon minimise
Parcel Minimum
Ped Path Enclave
20%X
X
20%X
Developments surrounding p paths must provide, at path’s floor area of public use.
6 Courtyard Feasable Floorplate/ Floorplate/ Height Floorplate/ Height Height 7 Carving 7 Feasable 7 Feasable 7 Feasable Floorplate/ Height
>75’
Parcel Configuration Parcel Configuration Parcel Configuration
Configuration of Configuration Parcels respects of Parcels Configuration existing respects organization.. ofexisting Parcels organization.. respects existing organization.. Configuration of Parcels respects existing organization.. their Parcel to form their party Parcel walls to with formtheir party their Parcel walls with to form theirparty walls with their
Master Plan
Mass RainMass Carving Rain Carving Mass Rain Carving
Buildings adjacent Buildings to and adjacent directly across to Buildings and directly adjacent across to and directly across the parks streetmust from follow rain parks the the street mustfrom follow rainthe parks must follow the Waterways and rain parks may the existstreet on from rain carving sunlight carving requirements. sunlight requirements. carving sunlight requirements. multiple planes.
into the rain parks. into the rain parks.into pedestrian the rain parks. pedestrian Planes.pedestrian Planes. Planes. Rain Park Right Rain Park to Right RaintoPark Right to Rain Park Right to pedestrian Planes. Block Water Block Sanctuary Water Block Sanctuary Water Block Water Sanctuary Light Light Light LightSanctuary Rain Parks
Height shall Height be adjusted shall be Height based adjusted shall on feasible based be adjusted on occupancy feasible basedoccupancy on feasible occupancy Height shall be adjusted based on feasible occupancy >75’ necessitiesnecessities as well as use asnecessities well andas configuration useasand wellconfiguration as use and configuration necessities as well as use and configuration 20%
Transferable Transferable AirTransferable Air Air
Transferable Air
If a building If does a building not reach does If a building its notmaximum reach does its not maximum reach its maximum
If a building does not reach its maximum allowable height, then the owner of adjacent parcel may buy that building’s remnant air.
Buildings exceeding an FAR of 3.5 must include a 50% allowable height, allowable then height, the allowable owner then the of height, adjacent owner then of the adjacent owner of adjacent efficient rainwater and greywater recycling system in order parcel mayparcel buy that maybuilding’s buy parcel thatmay remnant building’s buy that air.remnant building’s air. remnant air. to minimise demand on infrastructure.
A
Mass Rain MassCarving Rain Carving
WaterWater Planes Planes
Buildings adjacent Buildingsto adjacent and directly to and across directly across the street the fromstreet rain parks from rain must parks follow must the follow the carving sunlight carvingrequirements. sunlight requirements.
Waterways Waterways and rain parks and rain mayparks exist may on exist on multiple planes. multiple planes.
Right Right to Light to Light
Rain Parks Rain Parks
Right to Right Light to Light Residents Residents have ahave right atoright natural to natural light inlight in their habitats. their habitats.
Rain Park RainRight Park to Right to Light Light
BlockBlock WaterWater Sanctuary Sanctuary
When possible, When rain possible, parksrain must parks must be placedbe along placed thealong southern the southern edge of aedge blockoftoaachieve block to achieve maximummaximum access toaccess sunlight. to sunlight.
Blocks touching Blocks canal touching edge canal mustedge must dedicate at dedicate least 60% at least of adjacent 60% of adjacent waterfrontwaterfront at a depthatofaat depth least of 20atfeet least to 20 feet to open air space. open air space.
LineLin 4 Ridge 4 Ridge
Mass Mass and Paths and Paths
1. Rain parks 1. Rain areparks created areas created intentional as inte fl alleviatingalleviating the strainthe on strain the canal. on the can
BuildingsBuildings which intersect which designated intersect designated pedestrian pedestrian paths must paths allow must theirallow their continuous continuous passage and passage may and extend may and extend and connect to connect the paths to the on paths any ofon theany of the pedestrian pedestrian Planes. Planes.
2. A ridgeline 2. A ridgeline is placed is atplaced the midpoint at the m b canal andcanal the rain andparks the rain redirecting parks redirec half into the rain intoparks. the rain parks.
Ped Path Ped Enclaves Path Enclaves Developments Developments surrounding surrounding pedestrian pedestrian X paths must paths provide, mustat provide, path’s plane, at path’s 50% plane, 50% floor areafloor of public area of use. public use.
X
20%X
20%X
13| Christopher Esper
Developments Developments surrounding surrounding rain parksrain parks may buildmay directly buildup directly to edge upof topool edge of pool boundaryboundary provided provided they offerthey pedestrian offer pedestrian pathway through pathwayand through downand to pool downarea. to pool area.
Courtyard Courtyard Carving Carving 6 6
Party Party 5 Parcel 5 Parcel
e
4 Ridge Line
nes, tional flooding zones, . signated their dpoint between the ye extend and ng ater half of all rainwater of the
1. Rain parks are created as intentional flooding zones, alleviating the strain on the canal.
Configuration Configuration of Parcelsofrespects Parcels respects existing organization.. existing organization..
2. A ridgeline is placed at the midpoint between the canal and the rain parks redirecting half of all rainwater into the rain parks.
ParcelParcel Consolidation Consolidation
Mass Party Mass Party
ParcelParcel Configuration Configuration
Parcel Consolidation Parcel Consolidation may not exceed may notone exceed block. one block.
ParcelParcel Minimum Minimum
20%X
20’
A parcel’sAshortest parcel’s length shortest may length not be may narrower not be narrower than 20 feet. than 20 feet.
Massing Massing Massing
AppliedApplied code procedure Applied code procedure code procedure
Massing
Applied code procedure
20’
Floorplate/ Floorplate/ Height Height 7 Feasable 7 Feasable
>75’ 20%
Waste Waste Water Water
New Parcel New division Parcelmust division respect mustblock respect geometry. block geometry. X
MassMass Courtyard Courtyard
Buildings may Buildings occupy may theoccupy full width theof full width of their Parceltheir to form Parcel party to form wallsparty with their walls with their Buildings with Buildings floor plates with floor exceeding plates exceeding 75’ 75’ adjacent buildings, adjacent provided buildings,that provided this that this in their shortest in theirdimension shortest dimension must introduce must introduce does not obscure does not existing obscure windows. existing windows. a courtyard a courtyard at least 20% at least of floor 20% area of floor area A block must A block contain must 60% contain party60% walls.party walls.
ParcelParcel Geometry Geometry
es
pedestrian plane, 50%
andand PathPath Carving Carving 3 Canal 3 Canal
2 2 RainRain ParkPark Carving Carving
Setback Setback 1 Street 1 Street
Buildings exceeding Buildings exceeding an FAR ofan 3.5FAR mustofinclude 3.5 must a 50% include a 50% efficient rainwater efficient and rainwater greywater and greywater recycling system recycling in system order in order to minimise todemand minimiseon demand infrastructure. on infrastructure.
>75’ 20%
HeightHeight shall be shall adjusted be adjusted based based on feasible on feasible occupancy occupancy necessities necessities as wellas aswell use as and use configuration and configuration
Transferable Transferable Air Air If a building If a building does not does reach not its reach maximum its maximum allowable allowable height,height, then the then owner the owner of adjacent of adjacent parcel parcel may buy may that buy building’s that building’s remnant remnant air. air.
Height Exposure Plane
Rain Park Solar Carving
Canal Solar Carving
Re-Parceling
Courtyard Void for Max Plates
Drainage Ridgeline
Heightfield
Feasible Floorplate
14 | Selected Works
Maximum 200’ Extrusion
Program Attribution
Urban Code
15| Christopher Esper
Public/Rec./Green Valued Residential Parking Manufacturing B.O.H.
Program Layers
Ped-Way
Courtyard
Commercial
Open/ Recreation
Rain Park
Canal/ Rain Park
Residential
Marina
Commercial
Canal
16 | Selected Works
Valued/ Civic
17| Christopher Esper
Courtyard
Commercial
Rain Park
Marina
Canal Public/Rec./Green Valued Residential Parking Manufacturing B.O.H. Ped-Way
Master Program Code
Sectional Coding
18 | Selected Works
A
Pedestrian Plane
Commercial +60 1/16” = 1’
19| Christopher Esper
20 | Selected Works
Site Model 21| Christopher Esper
Border Cultural Center Texas - Mexico Border
22 | Selected Works
Critic: Dr. Nicolas Markovich | Spring ‘10
While El Paso and Cd. Juarez share many cultural and social influences such as the Hispanic culture and El Paso’s place in the early history and foundation of the United States, El Paso is also a cultural hub representing from the earliest of times, the cross- border mentality of the early 1900’s. In a more contemporary setting, certain external forces such the violence in Mexico and immigration has not only caused a geographical divide, but also a social divide. The purpose of Congruence is to re-surface the facets of life that manifest physical setting and essentially grow the two back together, and reflect the characteristics that once made both cities one in the same.
Upper/ Lower Plaza 23| Christopher Esper
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
24 | Selected Works Parking Level Ground Level First Second
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth
Lobby level 1. Lobby 2. Cultural center store Ground level 3. Arts and craft store 4. Promenade courtyard 5. Sculpture garden 6. Cafe First level 7. Administration 8. Display space 9. Lofts Second level 10. Arts and craft studio 11. Garden terrace Third level 12. Studio Fourth level 13. Theatre foyer 14. Theatre 15. Outdoor social space Fifth and Sixth levels 16. Gallery space 17. Outdoor roof theatre
25| Christopher Esper
Third
26 | Selected Works
Lobby Level
Atrium/ Workspace
27| Christopher Esper Exterior Terrace/ Facade
Natatorium
28 | Selected Works
Critic: Nicholas Markovich |Fall ‘10
Span. Structure.Circulation Certain urban circumstances were explored to inform the nature of the design for an aquatics center set in a conventional urban situation. The idea of growth was explored in both the formation stage and structural exploration; while responding to programmatic requirements, conceptual study and urban data. Recognizing that water is a crucial part of life and growth, as well as the idea that a community center empowers individuals to learn and grow, the form derives from a grid, which is emblematic of urban conformity. Growth in terms of deformation to this grid responds to objectives in the both program and context. Essentially this process creates drama from normalcy, movement and life from a static source.
29| Christopher Esper
Low-E Glass Layer
Polycarbonate Panel Layer
Frame Detail
Structural Steel Frame
Egress
Vertical Circulation
Structural Concrete Podium Foundation Pedestrian Circulation
Promenade
30 | Selected Works
Ground
Second
31| Christopher Esper
Parametric Semiology
32 | Selected Works
Critic: Patrick Schumaker |Studio Option Fall ‘13 In collaboration with Wieshun Xu
With the development of Internet, working on-site seems rather unnecessary in the future. However, face-to-face interaction does generate results and productivity that are far beyond the reach of technology now. Transforming Google campus means that the designer should fully recognize its potential of enabling off-site working conditions, and plan accordingly for maximized possibilities for free-flow, face-to-face encounters and interactions. Thus, an open-plan mat building is proposed. However, the existing structure with large span spaces and shell structures mostly enable two-dimensional movements across the same floor, and rarely free movement across floors. Hence, the challenge of this design proposal is to explore and present the possibility of a complex aggregate of working spaces made with (conceptually) a single surface, on which the two dimensional movement can topologically cross the floor structure and reach every corner of the building.
It is conceived that the aggregated working condition will be composed by variations of a single unit which involves both vertical and horizontal movement. Hence, an open column formed by two pseudo parallel surfaces is chosen as the starting point to be tested and distorted. Different fabric types are employed for form finding and material performance. A digital simulation process is taken in order to perform precise control over the formal reaction to different forces. Unit-spaces for individuals and structural concerns are the driving factors behind the variations. Unit conditions are expanded to field simulation in order to explore interaction between different unit/force types, in an attempt to find walkable surfaces. A physical model is then introduced to prove the simulation – because of the computation capacity restriction, the physical model has a finer grain to explore the relationship between surface opening and driving forces.
structural engineers of the 20th century.
2.2
Career
His academic life gave him the basics, which allowed him to get where he is today. First learning about gliding and model building he starts his architecture studies as an engineer and graduates with a dissertation about "hanging roofs". Already in 1955 he designed one of his first public textile membranes at the Bundesgartenschau in Kassel. About a decade later he founded the Institute for Lightweight Structures (IL; later ILEK) at the University of Stuttgart, for which he designed the institute building himself. There together with biologists, physicians and palaeontologists he researches natural building structures.
ILEK building in Stuttgart Vaihingen +
Sternenzelt, Kassel
Minimal Surface, Minimal Puncture, Minimal Hole
+
+
+
Experimenting with wires and soap emulsion Frei Otto found a way to simulate minimal surfaces with little effort, but great results. He also used these tools for the concept of minimal puncture and minimal hole (see picture). Today this basic knowledge is still being used when designing curved shapes. In the year 2000 he developed the apertures for the Stuttgart 21 main station by Ingenhoven.
+
+
2.3
+ +
+
+
+
+
+ +
+
Simulation A-3
Translatable n/a Translatable AnchorAnchor Points:Points: 4
Translatable Anchor Points: n/a
Aggregation A-1 Simulation D-1
Aggregation A-3
+
Simulation A-1
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
+
Frei Otto Stuttgard 21 Trainstation Module Simulation Year: 2000
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Edges Topology: Topology: Quad Tri Grid: 50x50 Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a Translation: n/a
+
Frei Otto Stuttgard 21 Trainstation Module Simulation Year: 2000
Fabrication Process Fabrication Process
+ +
+
+
+ +
+
+
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: (z)+15
+
Fabrication Process Material Research on Membranes and Composites 8
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: 0,0,0
+
+
+
Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: (z)-50
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: (z)+50
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Edges Topology: Topology: Quad Tri Grid: 50x50 Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Incision Type: Void Translation: -Z Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: -Z
Frei Otto Stuttgard 21 Trainstation Module Simulation Year: 2000
Translatable 3 Translatable AnchorAnchor Points:Points: 4
Simulation A-3-1
Aggregation A-2 Simulation D-2
Translatable Anchor Points: 3
Aggregation A-4
+
Simulation A-2
+
+ +
+
Frei Otto Stuttgard 21 Trainstation Module Simulation Year: 2000
+
Fabrication Process
+
+
+
+ Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Translatable Anchor Points: n/a
Translatable Anchor Points: n/a
Simulation E-1
Simulation E-3
Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: -Z
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: -Z
Translatable Anchor Points: 4
Translatable Anchor Points: 24
Translatable Anchor Points: 24
Simulation E-2
Simulation E-4
+
+
+ + + +
Translatable Anchor Points: 4
++
Translatable Anchor Points: 2
+
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: (z)+50,-50
+
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Anchors (4) Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: (z)+50,-50
+
+
+
Translatable Anchor Points: 2
+
+
Fabrication Process
+
+ +
+
+
+
+
+
Simulation C-1
+
Simulation B-1
+
+ Simulation B-1-2
+
Simulation C-2
++
++
+
Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
Translatable Anchor Points: n/a
Translatable Anchor Points: n/a
Simulation F-1
Simulation F-3
++
++
Fabrication Process
Translatable Anchor Points: 4 (inverted)
++++
Translatable Anchor Points: 4
Simulation C-3
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Simulation C-5
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: -Z
Translatable Anchor Points: 3
Translatable Anchor Points: 24
Translatable Anchor Points: 4
+ +
Simulation C-6
+
Simulation C-4
+
++
+
+
Translatable Anchor Points: 4
+
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Edges Topology: Tri Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: -Z
+
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
+
Fabrication Process
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: n/a
+
Fabrication Process
Simulation F-2
Simulation F-4
33| Christopher Esper
+ +
+
Fabrication Process
34 | Selected Works
35| Christopher Esper Program density is the driving force of local FAR in a campus, and due to the free-flow mat-building agenda, sectional relationships should be adjusted based on required number of floors for each program. 3 major prototypical sectional units are chosen to mitigate boundary conditions between areas of different density.
36 | Selected Works
Original Geometry
Digital simulation generates a corresponding form that appears to be homogeneous in its representation. However, in its actual physical performance, the form gives much hint on how to implement and enhance diverse spatial performance based on structural analysis as well as designated programs. To move beyond the interpretation of a singular membrane in a computer model, material thickness and opening are generated through structural analysis of the stretched mesh, tracing major load areas. Surface normal were taken into consideration in order to control the difference between walkable surfaces and “vertical� partitions.
Stress Analysis
Skin Application
Edge Fixity: Perimeter Points Topology: Quad Grid: 50x50 Incision Type: Void Translation: (z)+50 Frei Otto Stuttgard 21 Trainstation Module Simulation
Compression/Shear
Tension
Distance Measurement
Simulation A-3-1
37| Christopher Esper To distribute the units in the site, urban entrances are mapped to simulate path conditions based on connectivity, and figure-field reversal method is used to locate working aggregates. Boundary condition and density grading then determines locations for internal public spaces and openings such as gardens and exhibition halls.
38 | Selected Works The detailed program allocation at furniture-scale follows formal potentials generated by unit deformation and overall allocation. Using the same module that constitutes the largescale mesh, the furniture design seeks formal correspondence with the overall scheme, and is structurally enabled by the deformation of the global geometry.
39| Christopher Esper
Soldier’s Field
40 | Selected Works
Development, Negotiation & Investment Analysis
This report addresses a parcel of land, approximately 9.3 acres, located at Soldiers Field Road, northwest of Harvard’s Stadium and Bright Hockey Rink, 65 N. Harvard Street, and adjacent to Harvard’s Jordan Field, in Allston, Massachusetts. The hypothetical site and situation under review is part of an integrated 155-acre Allston campus initiative, detailed in the University’s ten-year Institutional Master Plan, and approved for redevelopment by the Boston Redevelopment Authority (“BRA”) on October 17, 2013. The current owner of the site is the Longfellow Estate Trust; real estate developer Ms. Catherine Harrison controls the site through an Option to Purchase Agreement with the Trust. This will provide the basis for determining a fair market purchase offer and negotiation strategy for the University to retain the property and/or secure site control. Analysis of site characteristics and market conditions determines that a mixed portfolio of asset types yields the greatest financial return for development investment of the 9.3-acre parcel. These asset types include a 236,779-square-foot residential building, including market rate and University student housing; a 230,188-square-foot office block, with 53,924-square-foot of retail/commercial
41| Christopher Esper
A
B
2'-6"
0'-2"
+96.0
Level 7
+84.0
Level 6
+72.0
Level 5
+60.0
Level 4
+48.0
Level 3
+36.0
Level 2
+24.0
Level 1
+12.0
Level 1
+/-0
0'-3"
0'-10"
Level 8
0'-9"
42 | Selected Works
+108.0
C
2'-6"
B
2'-6"
C
2'-6"
Level 8
+96.0
Level 7
+84.0
Level 6
+72.0
Level 5
+60.0
Level 4
+48.0
Level 3
+36.0
Level 2
+24.0
Level 1
+12.0
Level 1
+/-0
Section + Siteplan
43| Christopher Esper
A
Push-Pull
46 | Selected Works
OnePrize Competition Entry - Collaboration with Chase Pitner
faculty
1,000sf
studio
1,000sf
public v. private play v. think mobile v. fixed formal v. informal digital v. analogue operable v. fixed quiet v. loud v. phonecalls
0
“The nature of work is ever changing. What was historically static and fixed has been transformed; harboring a new mode of space for a more mobile, dynamic and flexible work style--one that fosters crossdisciplinary collaboration and formal and informal synergies. Recognizing the primary tension between the Dock’s individual identity and a level of co-dependence on other entities given this ethos, we call upon the oblique surface as a mediator between certain programmatic tensions. Deployed here as a system of circulatory links flowing into presentation spaces, works spaces, and ‘think’ spaces, the oblique surface is a zone for informal and formal interaction negotiating a multitude of flows and synergies, and facilitating a new type of interaction amongst students, instructors and within the buildings work community. The formal and circulatory language proposed is one which seeks to tap into the circulation and structural language of warehouse thereby allowing people to tap into the resources and types of interaction inherent in the innovation and design process.”
Assess
assessing current square footage, we identify the need for borrowed space in order to meet programmatic demand. We also asses programmatic tensions.
public play mobile informal digital operable loud
1
Wrap
2
Extend
to accommodate extra necessary spaces we extend and plot tensions to mediate
private think fixed formal analogue quiet
1,000sf
studio
1,000sf
public v. private play v. think mobile v. fixed formal v. informal digital v. analogue operable v. fixed quiet v. loud v. phonecalls
0
public play mobile informal digital operable loud
Assess
1
Wrap
assessing current square footage, we identify the need for borrowed space in order to meet programmatic demand. We also asses programmatic tensions.
2
private think fixed formal analogue quiet
Pin up Presentation/ Pin up Seating/Lounging
Extend
3
to accommodate extra necessary spaces we extend and plot tensions to mediate
Split
due to the existing structure and as a major programmatic divide
due to the existing structure and as a major programmatic divide
4
Drop
to create a formal and informal area for seating in presentations
to create a formal and informal area for seating in presentations
archive/ research
pinup
Seating/Lounging
Split
Drop
eating/ flex space
Pin up Presentation/ Pin up
3
4
5
PushPull
pushing in plates and the exterior form create visual connections as well as programmatic zones and circulation to come. pulling down circulation gives access to community/ students-faculty
6
Slit
a secondary presentation space and fenestration reveal
7
Activate
the intervention is conceived of as the expansion and contractions of a seemingly singular continuous surface to inform programmatic zones
Design Procedure
5
47| Christopher Esper
faculty
pu vis zon cir stu
Knowledge Club
Selected Works
a new contract for work in the city M.Arch Thesis
This thesis seeks to reassert the role of architecture as a mediator between the formal happenings of work and the informal, socially related work activities present in the city. The architecture of the workplace has blurred the boundary between work, fun and socialization, yet architecture has produced a hard boundary delimiting these functions from the public, or at the very least privileged participants complicit in a larger social and commercial knowledge base.
Firms such as Google, Facebook and Apple attempt to engineer serendipity by the fanciful insertion of certain social armatures and amenities that provoke the spontaneous interaction between their own employees; these however, have been closed to actors external to the firm-- ones who are relevant in the expansion and diffusion of knowledge for both social and capital intensive purposes.
Christopher Esper Given changes in work style, this project reinvests in the role of structure to propose indeterminate space not for the infinitesimal placement of furniture systems for cloistered, heads-down work but for a post-sedentary society where events related to ‘work’ catalyze knowledge exchange between private, privileged and public participants of a broader knowledge economy.
DUMBO Knowledge/ Social Exchange Green Desk
Duggal Greenhouse
Brooklyn Navy Yards Making
Selected Works
Downtown Brooklyn Education/ Tech
The Tech Impact in NYC
SEATTLE Clean Tech
DENVER
BOSTON
Telecommunications
SILICON VALLEY Hardware, Software and Engineering
NYC
Advertising, Media, Finance, Fashion, Manufacturing, Retail
SAN DIEGO Wireless, Biotech/ Pharmaceuticals
AUSTIN Clean Tech, Gaming, Wireless
New York has recently surpassed Boston as the second most important tech hub in the nation
#1
Tech sector in NYC has the most leasing activity of all sectors in 2012
NYC EDC, NYC Commercial Real Estate Competitiveness Study, Advisory Group Presentation, June 2013
41%
expected increase in demand from 2012 to 2025
Health-Tech, Biotech, Bioengineering
Domani Studios Freeverse Freshthrills, LLC HUGE Lifebooker nLytics One Hundred Robots Pontiflex Armchair Studio Big Spaceship Carrot Creative RedOwl Analytics
Underground Eats Amplify Education, Inc Breakfast Datalot Etsy Flocabulary Mobile Commons Prolific Interactive The JAR Group
OpenGeo AdStack Albatross Digital, LLC Green Desk DUMBO HomeShopr, Inc. Ketup Mixify MyarchN, LLC Originet
Digital Dumbo DUMBO Lot Smorgasborg Made in NY Media Center
Huge Meetups
Green Desk
55 Washington
Brooklyn IOS Developers
DUMBO Knowledge/ Social Exchange
Gran Electrica
Duggal Greenhouse
45 Main
Brooklyn Navy Yards Making
Brooklyn Landing/ Clumber Corner Watchtower Properties
Situ Studio
Product and Design McMillian + Furlow Pratt Design Incubator for Sustainable Innovation Atair Aerospace New Lab Terreform1
BLDG 132 BLDG 280
Crye Precision Ferra Designs
BLDG 275
Underground Eats Amplify Education, Inc Breakfast Datalot Etsy Flocabulary Mobile Commons Prolific Interactive The JAR Group
OpenGeo AdStack Albatross Digital, LLC Green Desk DUMBO HomeShopr, Inc. Ketup Mixify MyarchN, LLC Originet
Digital Dumbo DUMBO Lot
New York City College of Technology
55 Washington
Green Desk
Kings County Courthouse
Brooklyn IOS Developers
St. Francis College
45 Main
Clocktower Building
NY Marriot
16 Court
DUMBO Knowledge/ Social Exchange
Gran Electrica
George Westinghouse High School
UA Inst. of Math & Science
Smorgasborg Made in NY Media Center
Huge Meetups
Downtown Brooklyn Education/ Tech
US District Courthouse
NYU Polytechnic
Makerbot Homer Uniworld Group TheGreenhouse Center for Urban Duggal Science and Progress(CUSP)American Lawyer Media CNG DoITT
32 Court Borough Hall
Brooklyn Navy Yards Making
Brooklyn Landing/ Clumber Corner Watchtower Properties
Metro Tech Commons
Situ Studio
Spun Pop Chart Lab Studio Mercury Other Means Motion Capture NYC ArkMedia Zignage Cir.cl Flocabulary Shine Digital Ronik Design Unexpected Ways
Green Desk
Electric Literature 89 Second Productions Silhouette Studio
Product and Design McMillian + Furlow Pratt Design Incubator for Sustainable Innovation Atair Aerospace New Lab Berkley College Terreform1
BLDG 132 BLDG 280
Crye Precision Ferra Designs
BLDG 275
US District Courthouse
Downtown Brooklyn Education/ Tech
New York City College of Technology
Spun Pop Chart Lab Studio Mercury
Means work cluster typologies in the borough of Brooklyn.MotionOtherCapture NYC George Westinghouse High School
Clocktower Building
UA Inst. of Math & Science Kings County Courthouse 16 Court St. Francis College
32 Court Borough Hall
NY Marriot
NYU Polytechnic
Metro Tech Commons
Makerbot Homer Uniworld Group The Center for Urban Science and Progress(CUSP)American Lawyer Media CNG DoITT
ArkMedia Zignage Cir.cl Flocabulary Shine Digital Ronik Design Unexpected Ways
Green Desk
Electric Literature 89 Second Productions Silhouette Studio
DUMBO functions as a neighborhood incubator, with dozens of monthly meet-ups such as Creative Mornings; and social events such as Flea Food under the Archway and Digital DUMBO. The neighborhood is also home to a number of co-working spaces and traditional incubators that ensure access to the neighborhood for freelancers and companies of all sizes including StudioMates, DUMBO Startup Lab, The Green Desk, NYU-Poly Incubator and the soon-to-open IFP “Made in New York” Media Center featuring General Assembly classrooms. Berkley College
A new type of architectural armature to facilitate closer more transaction between parties can emerge. Particularly as the DT BKLN area has a number of educational institutions and tech companies. Implying further the need for intensification of encounter between the community and the workplace.
Christopher Esper
Domani Studios Freeverse Freshthrills, LLC HUGE Lifebooker nLytics One Hundred Robots Pontiflex Armchair Studio Big Spaceship Carrot Creative RedOwl Analytics
We have come to expect to engage and disengage our environments in a similar way as we do our technologies. (right) New workplace typologies have emerged and the shift from long-term office occupation has shifted to short-term – workplace as service models. Such models, enhance encounters between individuals (freelancers, consultants) However, The next generation of workplace architects will need to design offices to allow collaboration between organizations, not just between departments or individuals. Often these organization are embedded within the city. Without a common locale they do not have the chance to interact.
Selected Works
“Club” as described by Frank Duffy is a zone of high interactivity and autonomy in which knowledge transaction is at its highest. (right)
Site Model- Situated at the foot of the Brooklyn bridge and serving DUMBO, DT Brooklyn and the Navy Yards
Strategies for re-structuring the ‘workplace’
Independence today is a construct of human perception
Stage?
Parse? Strict Separation between home and work
Independent Worker
Tenuous Technological Stressors
Embrace?
Low
INTERACTION
High
Christopher Esper
We have come to expect to engage and disengage our work environment in a similar way as we do our technologies
Den
Club
(Group)
(Transactional Knowledge Work)
Hive (Individual Process Work)
Cell (Concentrated Study)
Low
High
AUTONOMY
Extra Office
Special Event
Food Truck/ Lunchtime
Bar
Local Cafe
Open Outdoor Space (park)
Core “Office” Functions
Clubhouse
Cafe
Supper Club
Conference Room
CITY
Clubhouse
Terrace
Selected Works
Cafe
Supper Club
Library
I-Bar
Terrace
Open Meeting
Open Huddle
Closed Meeting
Huddle Room
Work Station
Work Room
OFFICE
I-Bar
Library
Open Meeting
Open Huddle
Closed Meeting
Huddle Room
Work Station
Open Meeting
Open Huddle
Closed Meeting
Huddle Room
Work Station
Socializing/ learning/ exchange
Freelancers, Entrepreneurs, Public
Companies Companies
Freelancers, Entrepreneurs, Public Work in The City
Work in the Shared Thirdplace
Physical Space
Virtual Space knowledge systems intranet
Private
extranet sites knowledge communities
Privileged (clients and other consultants)
internet sites
Work in The Office
Public (shop front / branding / information display)
Cloister individual / concentrated workspace
Club / Collaborative project and meeting space
Cafe, informal interaction and workspace
COLLABORATIVE KNOWLEDGE WORK common room
team project space meeting room
cellular office
coffee shop lobby
open plan office
CLOSED-MINDED SPACE
OPEN-MINDED SPACE
staircases
carrel
study w/ view
hallway
airport departure lounge
enclosed study
rivers, hills, lake
prison cell
Christopher Esper
INDIVIDUAL KNOWLEDGE WORK
lobby as circulatory chamber
lobby as connector/pass-through
Plotting collaborative and individual knowledge work as it relates to more open-minded spaces, linkages reveal a procession feeding too and from the lobby—a site of lost interaction between the public and private. Or between individuals who work in the same building but on different floors or in different departments. Whereas lobbies used to display certain grandeur, publicness and openness, in the case of workplaces; they have become highly securitized and regulated.
lobby as promenade
spatial connector
as destination
The typology of the lobby is Capable of Handling and nesting many types of the activities, events formal/ informal necessary interaction amongst individuals of different organizations. The lobby is the most generic and viable container for handling a myriad of flexible formal activities. It is through this thematic lens of the “lobby that we begin to investigate the cross over between the public and private domains and situate the intentions of this thesis to provide a viable open workplace for related knowledge workers.
Interaction High
Sy
Exterior
Open Work Maker Space
E
Interaction High
Low
R
Private Learning/ Expansion ‘Lobby’
High
Low Exterior
Open Work Maker Space
Exterior
Indeterminate
Private
Systems
Elevator/Egress
Interaction High
Exterior
‘Lobby’
Restroom
Open Work Learning/ Presentation
Cafe/ Eating/ seating
Low Exterior
Maker Space Learning/ Expansion
Private
Elevator/Egress
Systems
Program Indeterminate
Exterior ‘Lobby’
Open Work Learning/ Presentation
Public
Restroom
Specific Exterior
Learning/ Expansion Cafe/ Eating/ seating
Maker Space
Public
Elevator/Egress
Program Indeterminate
Study and speculation on new types of structural definition in the “open workplace” ‘Lobby’
Restroom
Specific
Learning/ Expansion Learning/ Presentation
Cafe/ Eating/ seating
Public
Program Indeterminate
Specific
Material structure in the workplace has been one of the most defining characteristics of the tower and workplace. With freedom from structural necessity, The grid can reassert itself sectionally. To produce, connection, interaction and hierarchy not for people but for use of space.
Visual but no circulation/ proximity
Programs requiring height variation
through the section we can vary program and use according to structure in this manner. This new strategy doesn’t deny the role of structure rather negotiates the structure according to programmed uses and speculates on zones for indeterminate, serendipitous, unplanned and casual relationships between people
Visual but no circulation/ proximity
Visual but no circulation/ proximity Programs requiring height variation
Cafe/ Eating/ seating
Systems
Interaction
Selected Works
Learning/ Presentation
Program
Interaction High
Low Private
open to cloister typlogy
field to form
Systems
Exterior
Maker Space
Elevator/Egress
public open
priveledged open
priveledged closed
private open
Restroom
Low Private
Learning/ Expansion ‘Lobby’
ystems
Learning/ Presentation
Cafe/toEating/ field form seating
open to cloister typlogy
Exterior
Public
Program
Elevator/Egress
Indeterminate
Specific public open
Public
priveledged
Christopher Esper
Restroom
Exterior
Open Work
Specific
open enclosure varied field open field
open enclosure varied field open field
closed enclosure closed enclosure
varied field
varied field
open field
open field
Selected Works Model- Material structure in informing spatial use and the “dissolved perimeter�
Christopher Esper Section- Varying Structural depths of beams and columns
Selected Works
The structure in plan begins to inform the type of enclosure and programmatic use
Christopher Esper
Selected Works Public exterior promenade
Christopher Esper
Selected Works Perspective- Relationship of ‘open structure’ to the street and city.
Christopher Esper
Residential
a post- Katrina dwelling
COMMONS ENC
54 | Selected Works
COMMONS LOUISIANA STREET
Erosion.Regeneration.Protection The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina left hundreds dead and thousands homeless. The hurricane displaced many families and in turn marred the cultural tapestry that New Orleans once had. The traditions that exemplified this diverse cultural amalgam even reached into the once provincial way of building and living. ‘Shotgun homes’ as they are commonly called, embodied the way that New Orleanian’s lived. “The street was the audience and the porch was the stage.” The families that once populated these typically 30’x80” lots will now have a second chance, as these old traditions are re-imagined into a new type of “sustainable” and “protected” living for the future of New Orleans. The new type of structure will be elevated 10’ off the ground to protect against future floods. The exterior façade paneling system would be composed of a composite graphite polymer that would act to shield from blowing debris— which was a common hazard during the storm. Fenestration is strategically placed on the façade in order to shield openings while allowing for the penetration of light.
Professional
HOK Architects 80 Story Tower Facade DD | Houston Texas Summer ‘14
COMMONS ENCLOSURE COMMONS LOUISIANA STREET PERSPECTIVE
CLOSURE
55| Christopher Esper
7
T ELEVATION
HPP /(9(/
/(9(/
/(9(/
/(9(/
/(9(/
/(9(/
/(9(/ 7
/(9(/ &
/(9(/
/(9(/
/(9(/